Originally published in the July/August 2018 edition of eNews
By Alexandra Valcour
Greetings from the desk of your new Administrative Coordinator and Policy Analyst! I’m very excited to be here, and I’m even more honoured that I’ve been welcomed with such open arms. This amazing team has even entrusted me with some space in our Business Matters. So, the idea is I’ll be putting together an article on current events, marketplace news, and government updates that may be helpful to all of you wonderful business owners, operators and employees! We have seen a lot of electoral and legislative motion over the course of the summer. What is generally a quiet time has been quite busy:
The House of Commons rose for summer break on June 20. On July 18th Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shuffled his Cabinet, in a move that is being suggested by many as a pre-election preparation. Notable changes include: the new portfolio of “Small Business and Export Promotion” held by Minister Mary Ng; Jim Carr has moved from “Natural Resources” to “International Trade Diversification”; and a note from the home side, Bill Blair has taken on additional responsibilities of border security and crime reduction alongside his marijuana legalization file. It’s anticipated that MPs will be back in the house by September 17.
Premier Doug Ford and his new 20-member Cabinet were sworn in on June 29. The Legislature was recalled on July 9 and the Throne Speech was given on July 12. Following the Throne Speech, the legislature is expected to hold a short summer session of a couple of weeks; in which the government is anticipated to start implementing some of their campaign promises. Last but not least – mark your calendars for October 22, for the municipal elections! Registration to run in the election closed on July 27th, 2018. There are seven candidates for Mayor, and do note we have returned back to the ward system. Meaning, there are multiple candidates for both city and regional council in all five wards. You can find your ward and all candidates on the City of Oshawa’s “Elections” web page. In a joint effort with surrounding Chambers, there will be a Regional Chair Forum in September. In addition, we will offer an opportunity to submit your business questions for the councillors elect. Keep your eyes peeled for more information on all these topics and events!
Until we meet again …
